Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to practical Catholic men in union with the Holy See who are at least 18 years old. A practical Catholic is one who lives up to the Commandments of God and the precepts of the Church. A candidate is considered a “Knight” after taking his First Degree, but he is encouraged to advance through the Second and Third Degrees and on to the Fourth Degree. The candidate is considered a full “Knight” upon completion of the Third Degree. The members of the Fourth Degree promote the virtue of patriotism by serving in honor guards, color corps and promoting respect for the country and the flag. The candidate for the Knights of Columbus takes part in initiation degrees that explain the four principles of the organization:
- Charity
- Unity
- Fraternity
- Patriotism
The Georgetown University Knights of Columbus is a College Council and stands as a pillar of the Catholic faith on campus. The Knights offer an organization which provides fraternal as well as spiritual opportunities to its members.